Photo of Dr. John Thomas Nanney, Psychologist in Webster Groves, MO
Dr. John Thomas Nanney
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Webster Groves, MO 63119
I'm always honored to help adults and adolescents who are recovering and learning to thrive following acute and complex trauma. Traumatic stress reactions can take many forms including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, emotion dysregulation, substance misuse, and difficulties in relationships. Through a careful assessment and individualized formulation, trauma-focused psychotherapy can help to address them all. I particularly enjoy working with those who have experienced or lost loved-ones through community gun violence and veterans with combat trauma or challenges reintegrating into civilian life.
I'm always honored to help adults and adolescents who are recovering and learning to thrive following acute and complex trauma. Traumatic stress reactions can take many forms including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, emotion dysregulation, substance misuse, and difficulties in relationships. Through a careful assessment and individualized formulation, trauma-focused psychotherapy can help to address them all. I particularly enjoy working with those who have experienced or lost loved-ones through community gun violence and veterans with combat trauma or challenges reintegrating into civilian life.
(314) 936-4738 View (314) 936-4738
Photo of Diana Rigdon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Webster Groves, MO
Diana Rigdon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Webster Groves, MO 63119  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with trauma, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD.
Life can get pretty hard sometimes. Family issues, problems at work, coping with loss and the many stresses of life in general can cause difficulties that may have us asking questions like "What should I do?", or "How can I cope with this?". Sometimes conditions like depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and substance use can cause additional problems. If these are issues you would like to manage better, call today for an appointment and let's talk together about finding workable solutions. I am a licensed professional counselor with over 20 years experience helping people with these and other problems.
I specialize in working with trauma, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD.
Life can get pretty hard sometimes. Family issues, problems at work, coping with loss and the many stresses of life in general can cause difficulties that may have us asking questions like "What should I do?", or "How can I cope with this?". Sometimes conditions like depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and substance use can cause additional problems. If these are issues you would like to manage better, call today for an appointment and let's talk together about finding workable solutions. I am a licensed professional counselor with over 20 years experience helping people with these and other problems.
(314) 828-1287 View (314) 828-1287
Photo of Tina M Vora, Licensed Professional Counselor in Webster Groves, MO
Tina M Vora
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Webster Groves, MO 63119
EMDR, attachment focus, Trauma based, & mindfulness are a few methods that I use.
Is something holding you back from truly living life and experiencing joy? Are obtrusive thoughts keeping you stuck and unable to live in the moment? Do you long for more fulfilling relationships with others? You Are Not Alone! Having someone to connect with and share your story can be one of the best ways to start making the changes you want and deserve. As your therapist I will provide a judgement free space that is safe for you to drop the mask you have been wearing and share the inner thoughts that have been occupying your mind.
EMDR, attachment focus, Trauma based, & mindfulness are a few methods that I use.
Is something holding you back from truly living life and experiencing joy? Are obtrusive thoughts keeping you stuck and unable to live in the moment? Do you long for more fulfilling relationships with others? You Are Not Alone! Having someone to connect with and share your story can be one of the best ways to start making the changes you want and deserve. As your therapist I will provide a judgement free space that is safe for you to drop the mask you have been wearing and share the inner thoughts that have been occupying your mind.
(314) 470-9572 View (314) 470-9572
Photo of Dr. Rachel Hasper, Licensed Professional Counselor in Webster Groves, MO
Dr. Rachel Hasper
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Webster Groves, MO 63119  (Online Only)
We all struggle sometimes, but ongoing issues can leave us exhausted, isolated, confused, discouraged... If your days or nights are hard to get through, if you can't seem to settle down or stop overthinking, if life feels scary or you don't know what to do, if you never feel good enough or can't seem to 'get over' or 'stop doing' x, I'd love to talk with you. My experience is broad, but my practice is largely focused on anxiety & stress disorders, relational trauma, chronic & terminal illnesses, and healthy coping/decision making during life transitions.
We all struggle sometimes, but ongoing issues can leave us exhausted, isolated, confused, discouraged... If your days or nights are hard to get through, if you can't seem to settle down or stop overthinking, if life feels scary or you don't know what to do, if you never feel good enough or can't seem to 'get over' or 'stop doing' x, I'd love to talk with you. My experience is broad, but my practice is largely focused on anxiety & stress disorders, relational trauma, chronic & terminal illnesses, and healthy coping/decision making during life transitions.
(817) 242-4424 View (817) 242-4424
Photo of Cristina Marie Smugala, Licensed Professional Counselor in Webster Groves, MO
Cristina Marie Smugala
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Webster Groves, MO 63119  (Online Only)
My specializations consist of treating trauma, anxiety, eating disorders, depression, grief, panic, and addictions.
My passion is to empathetically guide and support transformation of traumatic experience. I will empower you to face your fears, unburden toxic shame, heal traumatic wounds and help you reclaim the courage that you know is inside of you. The ability to have love, compassion and acceptance for yourself are powerful healing forces that I strive to ignite, recover and unlock in my clients. Through EMDR and Somatic Experiencing I focus on restoring a sense of calm, centered connectedness within the brain and body. I work to inspire courage, promote healing so you can embody radical acceptance, release fear and embrace authenticity.
My specializations consist of treating trauma, anxiety, eating disorders, depression, grief, panic, and addictions.
My passion is to empathetically guide and support transformation of traumatic experience. I will empower you to face your fears, unburden toxic shame, heal traumatic wounds and help you reclaim the courage that you know is inside of you. The ability to have love, compassion and acceptance for yourself are powerful healing forces that I strive to ignite, recover and unlock in my clients. Through EMDR and Somatic Experiencing I focus on restoring a sense of calm, centered connectedness within the brain and body. I work to inspire courage, promote healing so you can embody radical acceptance, release fear and embrace authenticity.
(314) 888-5212 View (314) 888-5212
Photo of Rebecca Ehrke, Psychologist in Webster Groves, MO
Rebecca Ehrke
Psychologist, PsyD, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Webster Groves, MO 63119
Being in the mental health field for over 20 years, I have seen firsthand that trauma cannot be effectively treated by talk therapy alone.
My name is Rebecca Ehrke and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, Certified EMDR therapist and practice owner of Lifestream Integrative Healing Center. I chose the name, "Lifestream", from the concept of the "stream of life" that Peter Levine refers to in Somatic Experiencing. When someone experiences a traumatic event, it can disrupt the flow of their life path. Lifestream Integrative Healing Center offers holistic trauma treatment that helps individuals heal and return to the lives they were innately meant to have.
Being in the mental health field for over 20 years, I have seen firsthand that trauma cannot be effectively treated by talk therapy alone.
My name is Rebecca Ehrke and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, Certified EMDR therapist and practice owner of Lifestream Integrative Healing Center. I chose the name, "Lifestream", from the concept of the "stream of life" that Peter Levine refers to in Somatic Experiencing. When someone experiences a traumatic event, it can disrupt the flow of their life path. Lifestream Integrative Healing Center offers holistic trauma treatment that helps individuals heal and return to the lives they were innately meant to have.
(314) 804-1441 View (314) 804-1441
Photo of Lucy Zee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Webster Groves, MO
Lucy Zee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Webster Groves, MO 63119
You love and cherish your child or teenager. And, you work hard to provide for their physical/emotional well-being because happy, healthy kids promote joyful families. But sometimes despite your best efforts, your child continues to struggle with behavioral problems, peer relationships, family changes, deficits in social/emotional development, aftermath of traumatic experiences, or mental health challenges. Many parents like you are tasked to find the necessary help and resources that their children require. My training and experience in issues related to trauma, mental health, and attachment position me well to serve the needs of your family.
You love and cherish your child or teenager. And, you work hard to provide for their physical/emotional well-being because happy, healthy kids promote joyful families. But sometimes despite your best efforts, your child continues to struggle with behavioral problems, peer relationships, family changes, deficits in social/emotional development, aftermath of traumatic experiences, or mental health challenges. Many parents like you are tasked to find the necessary help and resources that their children require. My training and experience in issues related to trauma, mental health, and attachment position me well to serve the needs of your family.
(314) 720-0982 View (314) 720-0982
Photo of Creating Your Journey, LLC in Webster Groves, MO
Creating Your Journey, LLC
MA, LPC, ATR, CEDS-C
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Webster Groves, MO 63119
Are you struggling with disordered eating, negative body image, anxiety, depression, and/or unresolved trauma? Creating Your Journey has three therapist that specializes in treating eating disorders, body dysmorphia, mood disorder and trauma related disorders.
Are you struggling with disordered eating, negative body image, anxiety, depression, and/or unresolved trauma? Creating Your Journey has three therapist that specializes in treating eating disorders, body dysmorphia, mood disorder and trauma related disorders.
(314) 833-8865 View (314) 833-8865
Photo of Conscious Momma Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Webster Groves, MO
Conscious Momma Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CYT, TCYM
Verified Verified
Webster Groves, MO 63119  (Online Only)
I use somatic experiencing therapy, trauma-conscious yoga and EMDR to connect the mind AND body so you can LET GO of the intensity of the pain to feel like a better mother and woman.
Accepting New Patients! You're a mother who has tried therapy. You felt heard and supported but you don't feel different, and motherhood has made everything more intense! You understand your past more and maybe even feel like the expert on yourself. When the past comes up you cry, tense up, get defensive, yell, people please, isolate yourself, feel guarded, helpless, or even voiceless. You're scared it impacts you as a mom, partner/spouse, friend, and woman. You feel anxious, unheard, unsatisfied, unsafe, or unloved. Sometimes you think, "I suck!" You desperately want to release what swirls around your head and body but feel stuck.
I use somatic experiencing therapy, trauma-conscious yoga and EMDR to connect the mind AND body so you can LET GO of the intensity of the pain to feel like a better mother and woman.
Accepting New Patients! You're a mother who has tried therapy. You felt heard and supported but you don't feel different, and motherhood has made everything more intense! You understand your past more and maybe even feel like the expert on yourself. When the past comes up you cry, tense up, get defensive, yell, people please, isolate yourself, feel guarded, helpless, or even voiceless. You're scared it impacts you as a mom, partner/spouse, friend, and woman. You feel anxious, unheard, unsatisfied, unsafe, or unloved. Sometimes you think, "I suck!" You desperately want to release what swirls around your head and body but feel stuck.
(314) 834-5832 View (314) 834-5832
Photo of Rynn Wyrick, Licensed Professional Counselor in Webster Groves, MO
Rynn Wyrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Webster Groves, MO 63119  (Online Only)
I specialize in offering trauma-informed therapy to LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent adults residing in Missouri. As a queer and trans individual myself, my focus is on co-creating a safe and affirming environment for folks to thrive. I hold space for clients to explore and process their experiences of grief, complex trauma, and challenges stemming from the impacts of living in a traumatic and oppressive society. I particularly enjoy working with queer and neurodiverse individuals who are interested in taking a more deliberate approach to their personal growth and who wish to develop a deeper connection with themselves and their bodies.
I specialize in offering trauma-informed therapy to LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent adults residing in Missouri. As a queer and trans individual myself, my focus is on co-creating a safe and affirming environment for folks to thrive. I hold space for clients to explore and process their experiences of grief, complex trauma, and challenges stemming from the impacts of living in a traumatic and oppressive society. I particularly enjoy working with queer and neurodiverse individuals who are interested in taking a more deliberate approach to their personal growth and who wish to develop a deeper connection with themselves and their bodies.
(314) 970-3579 View (314) 970-3579
Photo of Shelley M Stretch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Webster Groves, MO
Shelley M Stretch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Webster Groves, MO 63119
Whether you are seeking counseling for trauma, depression, relationships, anxiety, substance use, grief, or major life transitions, I am here to support you.
Are you overwhelmed by life's challenges? Have you been struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, self-doubt, feeling stuck in the past or waiting for the ‘other shoe to drop?’ Are you wanting to gain insight, learn coping strategies, and resiliency? Change is possible, and we all possess the capability to heal and thrive. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore emotions, thoughts, beliefs, and past experiences. Therapy is a highly individualized process and I am dedicated to creating a non-judgmental space where you can explore, heal, and grow. It would be an honor to be present and assist you on your journey.
Whether you are seeking counseling for trauma, depression, relationships, anxiety, substance use, grief, or major life transitions, I am here to support you.
Are you overwhelmed by life's challenges? Have you been struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, self-doubt, feeling stuck in the past or waiting for the ‘other shoe to drop?’ Are you wanting to gain insight, learn coping strategies, and resiliency? Change is possible, and we all possess the capability to heal and thrive. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore emotions, thoughts, beliefs, and past experiences. Therapy is a highly individualized process and I am dedicated to creating a non-judgmental space where you can explore, heal, and grow. It would be an honor to be present and assist you on your journey.
(314) 439-8940 View (314) 439-8940
Photo of Meagan Vorce in Webster Groves, MO
Meagan Vorce
MEd, P-LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Webster Groves, MO 63119  (Online Only)
I utilize a trauma-informed perspective, operating from a place of non-judgment and curiosity.
Are you looking to make a change but keep getting stuck in old, unsatisfying patterns? Is there a life transition (for example, opening up a relationship or a later-in-life coming out) you're having trouble with? I'm a queer therapist passionate about working with people who want support in navigating life's complexities. Together, in a non-judgmental space, we will find approaches that work to repair attachment wounds, address past traumas, and get curious about limiting beliefs so you can live a more expansive and authentic life.
I utilize a trauma-informed perspective, operating from a place of non-judgment and curiosity.
Are you looking to make a change but keep getting stuck in old, unsatisfying patterns? Is there a life transition (for example, opening up a relationship or a later-in-life coming out) you're having trouble with? I'm a queer therapist passionate about working with people who want support in navigating life's complexities. Together, in a non-judgmental space, we will find approaches that work to repair attachment wounds, address past traumas, and get curious about limiting beliefs so you can live a more expansive and authentic life.
(314) 907-0258 View (314) 907-0258
Photo of Kristen Ratican, Licensed Professional Counselor in Webster Groves, MO
Kristen Ratican
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Webster Groves, MO 63119  (Online Only)
I approach treatment through an attachment-based, trauma-informed, psychodynamic lens and collaborative framework, recognizing that you are the expert of your life experience.
We are wired to repeat deeply learned patterns that, at a certain point, no longer serve us. Whether it’s in your personal relationships, or your relationship with yourself, at times you may find yourself feeling stuck in a repetitive loop, with outcomes that feel undesirable or out of your control. Together we can identify and explore these patterns in order to define your goals and work towards meaningful growth.
I approach treatment through an attachment-based, trauma-informed, psychodynamic lens and collaborative framework, recognizing that you are the expert of your life experience.
We are wired to repeat deeply learned patterns that, at a certain point, no longer serve us. Whether it’s in your personal relationships, or your relationship with yourself, at times you may find yourself feeling stuck in a repetitive loop, with outcomes that feel undesirable or out of your control. Together we can identify and explore these patterns in order to define your goals and work towards meaningful growth.
(314) 912-4041 View (314) 912-4041
Photo of True Wellness Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Webster Groves, MO
True Wellness Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Webster Groves, MO 63119
Are you looking for child therapist in the Webster Groves area? Sarah Sanburn, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Registered Play Therapist (RPT) has experience and a passion for working with children that are experiencing anxiety, big behaviors or trauma. Sarah utilizes play therapy to help children (2+) to build emotional strength, resilience and a sense of calm.
Are you looking for child therapist in the Webster Groves area? Sarah Sanburn, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Registered Play Therapist (RPT) has experience and a passion for working with children that are experiencing anxiety, big behaviors or trauma. Sarah utilizes play therapy to help children (2+) to build emotional strength, resilience and a sense of calm.
(314) 876-8812 View (314) 876-8812
Photo of Salvatore J Pagano, Licensed Professional Counselor in Webster Groves, MO
Salvatore J Pagano
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Webster Groves, MO 63119  (Online Only)
I treat depression, anxiety, relationship intimacy, sexual dysfunction, divorce and family issues, and loss. If you are feeling not seen or understood, or experiencing sexual dysfunction, you can better your life. I accept all circumstances and know the courage it takes to change. I am a retired Army Medical Officer. I have witnessed and assisted soldiers with trauma, recovery, careers, adjustments, transfers, family, retirement, and veteran issues. In our therapeutic partnership, we explore together discovering and learning new truths and seeing your world with fresh perspectives. You set the pace.
I treat depression, anxiety, relationship intimacy, sexual dysfunction, divorce and family issues, and loss. If you are feeling not seen or understood, or experiencing sexual dysfunction, you can better your life. I accept all circumstances and know the courage it takes to change. I am a retired Army Medical Officer. I have witnessed and assisted soldiers with trauma, recovery, careers, adjustments, transfers, family, retirement, and veteran issues. In our therapeutic partnership, we explore together discovering and learning new truths and seeing your world with fresh perspectives. You set the pace.
(314) 628-8952 View (314) 628-8952
Photo of Rachel Peterka, Licensed Professional Counselor in Webster Groves, MO
Rachel Peterka
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Webster Groves, MO 63119
I've achieved basic and advanced training in EMDR therapy specifically for attachment trauma, training through the International Association of Clinical Sex Addiction Specialists for spouses of betrayal, and training through the Gottman Institute for couples work.
Have you ever wondered if your past sexual experiences might be negatively affecting your current well being? My counseling practice centers around helping individuals and couples who have experienced sexual trauma and/or brokenness in any of its various forms. Whether it be due to past abuse, recent infidelity, or a history of sexual, physical and emotional betrayal and trauma, I consider it a privilege to walk with clients into the darkness of their stories. I enjoy coming alongside and advocating for those who are tired of just coping, dissatisfied with their quality of life, and desperate for deep change and healing.
I've achieved basic and advanced training in EMDR therapy specifically for attachment trauma, training through the International Association of Clinical Sex Addiction Specialists for spouses of betrayal, and training through the Gottman Institute for couples work.
Have you ever wondered if your past sexual experiences might be negatively affecting your current well being? My counseling practice centers around helping individuals and couples who have experienced sexual trauma and/or brokenness in any of its various forms. Whether it be due to past abuse, recent infidelity, or a history of sexual, physical and emotional betrayal and trauma, I consider it a privilege to walk with clients into the darkness of their stories. I enjoy coming alongside and advocating for those who are tired of just coping, dissatisfied with their quality of life, and desperate for deep change and healing.
(314) 310-4882 View (314) 310-4882
Photo of Paula Heller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Webster Groves, MO
Paula Heller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC, RDT
Verified Verified
Webster Groves, MO 63119  (Online Only)
Paula has post-graduate training in Trauma.
I believe change is possible! I help people just like you improve their relationships and build healthy interpersonal and family interactions by highlighting your strengths and resources, and helping you develop new coping strategies. I help families in crisis due to school issues, relationship issues and economic issues. I work with grief and specializes in issues related to pregnancy loss, infertility, life transitions for women including career issues, relationships, child birth, adoption, empty nesting, divorce and menopause.
Paula has post-graduate training in Trauma.
I believe change is possible! I help people just like you improve their relationships and build healthy interpersonal and family interactions by highlighting your strengths and resources, and helping you develop new coping strategies. I help families in crisis due to school issues, relationship issues and economic issues. I work with grief and specializes in issues related to pregnancy loss, infertility, life transitions for women including career issues, relationships, child birth, adoption, empty nesting, divorce and menopause.
(314) 347-3580 View (314) 347-3580
Photo of Hilary Kelly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Webster Groves, MO
Hilary Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Webster Groves, MO 63119
All of my work is trauma informed and mindfulness is a cornerstone of my approach.
It takes courage to walk in and sit down with someone to share your story. An honest story that includes stress, anxieties, sadness, grief, and emotional suffering. My intention as a therapist is to create a safe and inclusive space for clients. This space allows individuals to open up and be present with the emotions, thoughts, and feelings that make up the human experience. I currently specialize in working with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, and relationship issues.
All of my work is trauma informed and mindfulness is a cornerstone of my approach.
It takes courage to walk in and sit down with someone to share your story. An honest story that includes stress, anxieties, sadness, grief, and emotional suffering. My intention as a therapist is to create a safe and inclusive space for clients. This space allows individuals to open up and be present with the emotions, thoughts, and feelings that make up the human experience. I currently specialize in working with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, and relationship issues.
(314) 804-2286 View (314) 804-2286
Photo of Beth Perkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Webster Groves, MO
Beth Perkins
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Webster Groves, MO 63119
Whatever struggle is motivating you to start counseling, something inside is knocking. The knock may be feeling depressed, anxious, angry, or overwhelmed. It may be feeling disconnected in relationships and from what is meaningful in your life, a sense of emptiness or lack of purpose. It may be unresolved trauma. To answer that knock means to turn inward, which can be challenging and uncomfortable at times, yet I whole-heartedly believe the life you seek is patiently waiting. The pain you are experiencing is actually an invitation for healing and growth. Answer the knock. When things break down, breakthroughs happen.
Whatever struggle is motivating you to start counseling, something inside is knocking. The knock may be feeling depressed, anxious, angry, or overwhelmed. It may be feeling disconnected in relationships and from what is meaningful in your life, a sense of emptiness or lack of purpose. It may be unresolved trauma. To answer that knock means to turn inward, which can be challenging and uncomfortable at times, yet I whole-heartedly believe the life you seek is patiently waiting. The pain you are experiencing is actually an invitation for healing and growth. Answer the knock. When things break down, breakthroughs happen.
(314) 207-5596 View (314) 207-5596
Photo of Tyler Witzig, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Webster Groves, MO
Tyler Witzig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Webster Groves, MO 63119
I specialize in working with individuals who experience anxiety, addiction, and the aftereffects of trauma.
Feeling on edge? Having difficulty connecting meaningfully with others? Feel like a hamster on a wheel and life has lost its zest? People get stuck in cycles and problems can snowball. Figuring out what needs to change and how to do it can be confusing and demoralizing. Together, we will clarify what's most important to you and how to live a more whole-hearted life.
I specialize in working with individuals who experience anxiety, addiction, and the aftereffects of trauma.
Feeling on edge? Having difficulty connecting meaningfully with others? Feel like a hamster on a wheel and life has lost its zest? People get stuck in cycles and problems can snowball. Figuring out what needs to change and how to do it can be confusing and demoralizing. Together, we will clarify what's most important to you and how to live a more whole-hearted life.
(314) 886-8645 View (314) 886-8645

See more therapy options for Webster Groves

Trauma and PTSD Therapists

When should I seek treatment for trauma?

Not everyone who undergoes trauma needs therapy to heal, but many do. If, after experiencing a traumatic event, you find yourself struggling with symptoms such as nightmares, dissociation, irritability, or emotional numbness—especially if these symptoms last more than a month and are severe enough to interfere with your daily functioning—you may benefit from seeking out therapy with a trauma-informed provider.

How long does trauma therapy take?

Different types of therapy for trauma unfold on different timelines. Prolonged exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy, for example, each take about three months, while trauma-informed CBT may last anywhere from 8 to 25 sessions. Other approaches, especially those that are less structured or that incorporate elements from multiple modalities, may be more open-ended, though many patients report feeling better within the first few months of treatment.

What happens if trauma is left untreated?

Unaddressed trauma can have serious—even devastating—effects on relationships, career, and day-to-day functioning. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can lead people to distrust or lash out at others, making it difficult to maintain intimate relationships; it can also trigger symptoms such as flashbacks or hyperreactivity that can interfere with a person’s ability to function effectively, personally and/or professionally. Some sufferers turn to drugs to find relief. Symptoms may lessen on their own with time, but there is no guarantee that PTSD will resolve on its own.

Can PTSD come back after treatment?

It is possible for PTSD symptoms to recur months or years after successful treatment. This is because, like most mental health disorders, it is not possible to “cure” PTSD, and stressful life events may cause symptoms to recur in even the most resilient individuals. There is no shame in re-experiencing PTSD symptoms nor in returning to therapy when such relapses occur; indeed, many forms of trauma therapy explicitly encourage periodic “maintenance sessions” to reinforce coping skills and ensure that symptoms stay manageable.